Left-wingers are some of the most electrifying players in world football. Their blend of speed, skill, and creativity makes them crucial for breaking defensive lines, launching counterattacks, and creating goal-scoring opportunities.
From legendary names like Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry to today’s stars, the left flank has always been home to game-changers. But the role of the modern left winger has evolved—no longer just inverted forwards, many now operate with tactical flexibility and increased responsibility in both attack and defense.
In this article, we’ve ranked the 10 best left wingers in the world right now—based on goal contributions, impact on team success, and technical/physical attributes.
Let’s dive into it.
✅ Ranking Criteria
1. Goal Contributions:
Goals and assists in domestic and international competitions play a major role. A winger who directly contributes to goals is always more valuable.
2. Impact on Team Success:
Their influence in key games, consistency, and role in helping their team compete for titles.
3. Technical & Physical Attributes:
Pace, dribbling, ball control, passing accuracy, and one-on-one dominance—all essential qualities that separate elite wingers from the rest.
🔟 Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United)
Stats (2024/25): 9 Goals, 7 Assists
Honours: Carabao Cup Winner
Gordon has been a revelation for Newcastle, adding tenacity and relentless energy on the left flank. His pressing, pace, and ability to win fouls make him a constant menace for defenders. He’s also improved his finishing, making him a reliable outlet for goals.
9️⃣ Nico Williams (Athletic Club)
Stats (2024/25): 11 Goals, 7 Assists
Highlight: Goal in Euro 2024 Final for Spain
A breakout star, Nico Williams combines raw pace with smart movement. He’s matured tactically and often delivers in big moments—his Euro 2024 performance is proof.
Premier League clubs are circling with big offers, and it’s easy to see why.
8️⃣ Luis Díaz (Liverpool)
Stats (2024/25): 15 Goals, 8 Assists
Highlight: 4 goals vs Bayer Leverkusen in UCL
Díaz remains Liverpool’s spark down the left wing. His explosive dribbling and pressing make him a natural fit for Arne Slot’s high-intensity system.
He’s developed a killer instinct in front of goal and continues to link well with Salah and Núñez.
7️⃣ Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain)
Stats (2024/25): 18 Goals, 17 Assists
Speed: Clocked at 35.3 km/h
The most underrated winger in Europe? Barcola is having a phenomenal season at PSG. With blistering pace and sharp decision-making,
he’s filled the gap left by Mbappé moving centrally. His big-game composure makes him one of the fastest-rising stars in football.
6️⃣ Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal)
Stats: 41 Goals & 24 Assists in 168 Appearances
Age: 22
A relentless presser and technically gifted attacker, Martinelli has become integral to Arsenal’s style under Arteta.
His ability to beat defenders on either side, coupled with a powerful shot, makes him a huge threat—especially on the counter.
5️⃣ Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG)
Stats (2024/25): 9 Goals, 8 Assists
UCL Highlight: Knocked Liverpool out with MOTM display
The Georgian magician has been a revelation since joining Napoli. Direct, explosive, and unpredictable, Kvaratskhelia creates danger every time he touches the ball.
He’s key to Napoli’s attacking identity and continues to evolve in big European nights.
4️⃣ Rafael Leão (AC Milan)
Stats: 56 Goals, 49 Assists in 204 Games
Age: 24
Leão combines flair with power. Despite his size, he moves like a winger half his frame, dancing past defenders with ease. His relaxed but efficient style is
deceptive—he’s deadly in transition and can create magic from nothing.
3️⃣ Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
Stats: 77 Goals, 74 Assists in 256 Appearances
Age: 23
Viní Jr. is the heartbeat of Madrid’s attack. With unmatched flair, balance, and relentless determination, he’s not only replacing Ronaldo’s legacy but
building one of his own. He’s already a Champions League winner and continues to grow season after season.
2️⃣ Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
Stats (PSG): 253 Goals, 107 Assists in 302 Appearances
Position Shift: From striker to left winger
Now wearing the white of Real Madrid, Mbappé is arguably the most dangerous player on the planet. His speed, clinical finishing, and game-changing ability
from the left flank make him nearly unplayable. Though he’s often seen as a striker, his most devastating performances come from the wing.
1️⃣ Raphinha (Barcelona)
Stats (2024/25): 29 Goal Involvements in 29 LW Appearances
Honours: Hat-trick vs Bayern Munich, Goal in El Clásico
The Brazilian has been sensational this season. With unmatched agility, precise crossing, and leadership as vice-captain, Raphinha has become
Barcelona’s most consistent forward. He’s in the form of his life and is even being tipped as a Ballon d’Or contender. A dominant force on the left wing.
🔚 Final Thoughts
From rising stars like Barcola and Gordon, to elite powerhouses like Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., left-wingers are rewriting the rules of modern football.
The evolution of the position has never been more exciting, and these ten players are leading the charge in 2025.
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Which is winger do YOU think is underrated or missing from this list? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your debate post!